“The rider went off the road and fell into a ravine, where he was promptly assisted by the race doctor,” his team wrote in a statement. Mäder was found unconscious, resuscitated on the spot and then transported by helicopter to the hospital in Chur. More news about the consequences of the accident will follow after Mäder has undergone further investigation.”
Mäder crashed together with the American Magnus Sheffield (Ineos Grenadiers) in the descent of the Albula Pass towards the arrival place La Punt. Sheffield would suffer from bruises and a concussion. He was taken to hospital in Samedan.
Remco Evenepoel was one of the riders who showed his support on Twitter. The Belgian world champion was also critical of the organization. “I hope today’s stage finale will provide food for thought for both organizers and ourselves as riders,” Evenepoel wrote. “A top finish would have been perfectly possible, it was not a good decision to let us make this dangerous descent. As riders, we also have to think about the risks we take when going down a mountain. My thoughts are with Mäder and Sheffield.”
Spaniard Juan Ayuso of UAE Team Emirates won the queen stage. The Dane Mattias Skjelmose is the new leader in the standings.
Various statements of support for Mäder came in through social media: